Lionel Messi made an emotional return to the pitch for Inter Miami following the passing of his father, Jorge. The Argentine star had previously published a letter expressing "serious doubts" about his footballing future in the wake of the personal tragedy. Despite his comeback, Inter Miami suffered a 3-2 loss to Mexico’s León in their final 2026 Leagues Cup group-stage match, leading to their elimination from the tournament. Messi entered as a second-half substitute, replacing Daniel Pintér, who had scored Miami's opener. However, the Herons conceded twice, with Daniel Arcilla securing León's victory. Messi's performance was subdued, registering only one shot on target. His contract with Inter Miami extends until December 2028, though opt-out clauses are present. Rumors suggest a potential return to his boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, in Argentina.